How to Become a Teacher in Further Education: A Step-by-Step Guide

If you’re considering a career change or looking to share your expertise with the next generation, becoming a teacher in Further Education (FE) is an exciting and rewarding path. FE colleges and training providers across the UK play a vital role in preparing learners for employment, higher education, and lifelong learning.

But how exactly do you become a teacher in FE UK? This step-by-step guide explains the qualifications, skills, and routes into the sector, and how Teacher Training UK can help you get there.

Step 1: Understand What FE Teaching Involves

FE teaching covers a wide range of learners and subjects:

• 16–19-year-olds completing A-Levels, BTECs, or apprenticeships.

• Adults retraining or upskilling for new careers.

• Specialist courses in vocational areas such as engineering, childcare, health & social care, IT, or construction.

Unlike school teachers, FE lecturers don’t always need a degree in education to get started, but you will need the right teaching qualifications.

Step 2: Gain Relevant Subject Knowledge

The FE sector values industry expertise as much as academic knowledge. For example:

• An experienced plumber can teach plumbing.

• A qualified nurse can teach health & social care.

• An IT professional can deliver computing modules.

If you have professional or vocational experience, you already have a strong foundation for FE teaching.

Step 3: Choose the Right Teaching Qualification

To teach in FE, you’ll usually need to complete a recognised teaching qualification. The most common routes are:

• Level 3 Award in Education and Training (AET):An introductory course for those new to teaching or training.

• Level 4 Certificate in Education and Training (CET):Suitable for those with some teaching experience who want to develop further.

• Level 5 Diploma in Education and Training (DET):The main qualification for FE teachers. Equivalent to the first year of a degree, it provides the skills and knowledge needed for a full teaching role.

At Teacher Training UK, we specialise in supporting trainees through the DET and other qualifications, offering flexible online and blended learning options.

Step 4: Get Classroom or Training Experience

Alongside your qualification, you’ll need teaching practice hours. This means planning, delivering, and evaluating lessons with real learners. Many training providers (including Teacher Training UK) help you arrange placements or allow you to use your workplace if you’re already teaching or training.

Step 5: Work Towards QTLS Status

Once you’ve completed your Level 5 DET, you can apply for Qualified Teacher Learning and Skills (QTLS) status through the Society for Education and Training.

QTLS is recognised as equivalent to Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) and can open doors to teaching roles across schools, colleges, and training organisations.

Step 6: Apply for FE Teaching Jobs

With your qualification and teaching practice complete, you’ll be ready to apply for FE teaching positions. These can range from part-time and sessional roles to full-time lecturer posts.

Common job boards for FE roles include:

• TES Jobs

• AoC Jobs

• Indeed

Networking with colleges, training providers, and professional associations can also help you find opportunities.

Skills You’ll Need to Succeed in FE

To thrive as an FE teacher, you’ll need more than just qualifications. Key skills include:

• Communication and presentation skills.

• The ability to adapt lessons for diverse learners.

• Patience, empathy, and resilience.

• Organisational skills for planning and assessment.

Why Choose Teacher Training UK?

At Teacher Training UK, we’ve helped hundreds of learners successfully transition into FE teaching careers. Our courses are:

• Flexible: Study online or blended around work and family commitments.

• Accredited: Recognised qualifications that employers trust.

• Supportive: One-to-one tutor guidance and mentoring throughout.

Whether you’re just starting out with the AET or ready to take the next step with the Level 5 DET, we’ll support you on your journey to becoming a qualified FE teacher.

Final Thoughts

Becoming an FE teacher in the UK is an achievable and rewarding career move, particularly for those with industry expertise who want to inspire the next generation. By gaining the right qualifications, building teaching experience, and working towards QTLS, you can open the door to a wide range of opportunities in education.

Ready to take the first step?

Explore our teaching qualifications here and start your journey today.